Jaroslav Halák Announces Retirement: Canadiens Favorite Ends NHL Career

Jaroslav Halák, one of the most respected goaltenders of his generation and a beloved figure in Montreal Canadiens history, officially announced his retirement from professional hockey today, July 18, 2025.

The 40-year-old Slovak netminder closes the book on a 17-season NHL career that included stops with seven different franchises, but he’s best remembered for his unforgettable playoff run with the Canadiens in 2010.

Career Stats and Accolades

Halák retires with 295 wins in 581 games played, along with 53 shutouts, a goals-against average of 2.50, and a save percentage of .915. He earned the William M. Jennings Trophy twice—once with the St. Louis Blues in 2012 and again with the Boston Bruins in 2020.

He last played in the NHL during the 2022–23 season with the New York Rangers.

“It Was Time”

Speaking with Slovak outlet Dennik Sport, Halák shared the reasoning behind his decision. Despite training in hopes of a comeback last season and joining the Carolina Hurricanes on a professional tryout, nothing came to fruition.

“Last year I completed summer training… but when nothing came of it, I told myself it was pointless,” he explained. “After that I didn’t even try anymore. I’m officially ending my career.”

He thanked his fans and family, especially his wife Petra, for their constant support over the years.

Montreal Memories

Drafted 271st overall by Montreal in 2003, Halák rose from backup to hero status during the 2010 Stanley Cup Playoffs. He backstopped the Canadiens to a stunning upset over the top-seeded Washington Capitals, then eliminated the Pittsburgh Penguins to lead Montreal to the Eastern Conference Final. His performance during that run remains one of the most iconic moments in recent Canadiens history.

Though traded after the 2010 season, his impact in Montreal has never faded. That trade ultimately led to the acquisition of players like Lars Eller, and the ripple effects are still felt in the Canadiens’ roster construction today.

A Global Competitor

Halák also shined on the international stage, representing Slovakia in two Olympic Games and leading Team Europe to the final of the 2016 World Cup of Hockey.

No Regrets

While he narrowly missed out on the 300-win milestone, Halák holds no regrets about calling it a career.

“It’s been a good one,” he said. “It would have been nicer with 300 wins, but I’ll be happy with 295.”

Jaroslav Halák leaves behind a legacy of quiet excellence, unforgettable playoff performances, and a reputation as one of the NHL’s most reliable goaltenders. Canadiens fans will remember him fondly—not just for the stats, but for the heart and grit he brought to the crease.